Doctor Fatigue Related to Medical Malpractice Lawsuits

Medical Malpractice Lawsuits on the Rise

It has been estimated that American workers have increased productivity levels by 60 percent in the last 20 years. While this may be good news for business, the extra hours of work are taking a toll on the health and well-being of workers everywhere. Obesity, hypertension and chronic diseases have risen simultaneously with more work responsibilities and longer work hours. For physicians, however, being tired and overworked not only affects the doctors themselves – it can also lead to serious long-term injuries and even death for their patients.

A recent study of 890 doctors at 500 hospitals by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) revealed that 40 percent of doctors take on more patients then they can handle at least once a month. Twenty-five percent of doctors acknowledged that fatigue and work overload negatively affects their ability to recommend proper treatment and order (or refrain from ordering) proper tests. Some even admitted that their patients were seriously injured or died as a result.

The majority of medical malpractice lawsuits in the U.S. involve OB-GYNs, surgeons and primary care doctors. While studies show a decline in the number of medical malpractice lawsuits in the last decade, the amounts awarded by juries has risen. From 2005-2009, the average amount awarded by a jury for inpatient negligence was $363,000; for outpatients, the average amount awarded was $290,000.

When you go to the doctor, you expect to get better, not get hurt. Although some doctors may be tired and overworked, that doesn’t mean you aren’t entitled to compensation if you are seriously injured because of a doctor’s negligence. A medical malpractice lawyer from 1-800-THE-LAW2 can protect your rights and help you get through the difficult times at no financial burden to you.